GolfGTIforum.co.uk
Model specific boards => Golf mk5 => Golf mk5 how to guides + info => Topic started by: henspeed on 10 August 2007, 11:12
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Hi
I am due to pick up my new GTi in the newt few weeks.
I have never bought a new car before.
What checks should I carry out on the car before I hand over the cash and drive away.
Thanks in advance
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Erm.. check you have an ENGLISH handbook (if in the UK) ;)
And there are NO scratches on the car where it's been on the forecourt where people brush past it.. etc.
Also I would check all the panels line up proper - it's been known for some of these to come out the factories with shoddy panels! :shocked:
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Hi Henspeed
This is a list I collated from various forums before collecting mine. Some only apply for checking an import is to UK Spec. OK, I know, it's an embarrassingly long list, but I was spending a lot of money! Before you collect the car, check with the dealer that you can inspect the car indoors if there's any chance of rain, otherwise you won't see any marks on the paintwork etc. Get the dealer to leave you alone, he can put the kettle on for a cuppa for when you're done.
If you do find anything wrong, make sure it's noted down and decide whether to reject the car (really tough after a 15 week wait) or get it in writing that the dealer will rectify it later to your satisfaction.
1 Check all the optional extras
2 Full Spacesaver Sparewheel in boot - (UK Spec.)
3 Check the condition of all the bodywork, wheels and interior, fog lights for stone chips (if its got cosmetic damage its going to be down to you once you drive away).
4 Marks on wheels from lashing ratchet strap from the transporter lorry.
5 Look very carefully for any small dents or chips. Crouch low and look along the sides of the vehicle and all around for anything out of the ordinary. If the car is outside and it has been raining tell the dealer you will be inspecting the car as soon as it is dry as you wouldn't see anything small if wet.
6 Check panel allignment
7 Check the fit of the doors (front especially) up at the top of the window towards the rear.
8 Have a good look at the seats and the fit of all the trim inside.
9 Check the transport blocks have been removed from the suspension springs
10 Headlight settings are on UK setting (ie headlights are not always on with ignition)
11 Full Alarm and Immobiliser (check by locking someone in the car, keep still for a minute, and then move arms around) (Import only)
12 English Manuals in leatherbound GTi holder (UK Spec)
13 Make sure all other documents are in the vehicle wallet.
14 Radio security code has been inputted and you have the number etc
15 Make sure there are no stray rags/cloths in the engine compartment.
16 Make sure they have filled in and stamped the PDI part of the service book
17 Bottle opener in the centre compartment (in between gear stick and armrest), dealers like to keep these.
18 Smoking Pack/Non smoking pack (which ever you ordered)
19 Check VIN numbers match between the car and documentation
20 Make sure you are set up for the service regime you want (Longlife or time & distance)
21 If there is no top up oil in a little bag in the boot ask for some.
22 Check the bolt caps have been inserted in the holes on the wheels
23 Drop the windows right down, and then put them back up on auto (so push/pull knob the double click and don't hold it). Make sure the windows don't drop when they're about an inch from shut.
24 But dont worry too much about making sure all the electric stuff works (if there is a fault with the car its covered by warranty anyway) just concentrate on the stuff that the retailer can shirk responsibility for later.
25 Key adapter for locking wheel nuts (should be in the boot, with the spare wheel)
26 Two keys with remote locking functions, plus plastic key tag - with serial number, for ordering replacement key if necessary.
27 When you get the car home check the tyre pressures (once they have cooled down) - they leave the factory at 55 psi (set for long term storage)
28 Drive home with enormous smile on your face.
Hope that helps
Robin
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Hi Henspeed
This is a list I collated from various forums before collecting mine. Some only apply for checking an import is to UK Spec. OK, I know, it's an embarrassingly long list, but I was spending a stupid amount of money! Make sure you can inspect the car indoors if there's any chance of rain, otherwise you won't see any marks on the paintwork etc. Get the dealer to leave you alone, he can put the kettle on for a cuppa for when you're done.
If you do find anything wrong, make sure it's noted down and decide whether to reject the car (really tough after a 15 week wait) or get it in writing that the dealer will rectify it later.
1 Check all the optional extras
2 Full Spacesaver Sparewheel in boot - (UK Spec.)
3 Check the condition of all the bodywork, wheels and interior, fog lights for stone chips (if its got cosmetic damage its going to be down to you once you drive away).
4 Marks on wheels from lashing ratchet strap
5 Look very carefully for any small dents or chips. Crouch low and look along the sides of the vehicle and all around for anything out of the ordinary. If the car is outside and it has been raining tell the dealer you will be inspecting the car as soon as it is dry as you wouldn't see anything small if wet.
6 Check panel allignment, especially doors
7 Check the fit of the doors (front especially) up at the top of the window towards the rear.
8 Finally have a good look at the seats and the fit of all the trim inside.
9 Check the transport blocks have been removed from the suspension springs
10 Headlight settings are UK spec (ie headlights are not always on with ignition)
11 Full Alarm and Immobiliser (check by locking someone in the car, keep still for a minute, and then move arms around) (Import only)
12 English Manuals in leatherbound GTi holder (UK Spec)
13 Make sure all other documents are in the vehicle wallet.
14 Radio security code has been input and you have the number etc
15 Make sure there are no stray rags/cloths in the engine compartment.
16 Make sure they have filled in and stamped the PDI part of the service book
17 Bottle opener in the centre compartment (in between gear stick and armrest)
18 Smoking Pack/Non smoking pack (which ever you ordered)
19 Check VIN numbers match between the car and documentation
20 Make sure you are set up for the service regime you want (Longlife or time & distance)
21 If there is no top up oil in a little bag in the boot ask for some.
22 Check the bolt caps have been inserted in the holes on the wheels
23 Drop the windows right down, and then put them back up on auto (so push/pull knob the double click and don't hold it). Make sure the windows don't drop when they're about an inch from shut.
24 Dont worry too much about making sure the elec windows etc work (if there is a fault with the car its covered anyway) just concentrate on the stuff that the retailer can shirk responsibility for later.
25 Key adapter for locking wheel nuts (should be in the boot)
26 Plastic key tag - with number, for ordering replacement key if necessary
27 When you get the car home check the tyre pressures (once they have cooled down) - Mine were still at 55 psi (factory setting for storage)
28 Drive home with enormous smile on your face.
Bl00dy hell... do you really do all this? I just look at it and say thanks... maybe I'm a mug. :embarassed: I'd feel too embaressed going over all those checks.
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worthy of a sticky methinks :smiley:
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Robin i like your style
i will print that off and take it with me 2 pick up my car
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I picked mine up from main dealer, it was covered in rain water, didnt do any checks, hence drove off without tax disc in car! But everything has been fine, 11 months later.... :grin:
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worthy of a sticky methinks :smiley:
Yeah, agreed, an excellent post.
PS, why is there no "reputation" or "thanks" system here - or doesn't SMF support it?
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... Picking car up tomorrow and I want to know if I should expect and need to check for a 2nd key (I assume you get 2 keys, but I read on another post that some people are only given 1 key when they pickup the car).
Cheers.
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... Picking car up tomorrow and I want to know if I should expect and need to check for a 2nd key (I assume you get 2 keys, but I read on another post that some people are only given 1 key when they pickup the car).
Cheers.
2 keys with remote locking functions. One of them has a plastic tag with a serial no on to order replacement keys should you ever lose one.
Cass
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Great advice redrobin (PS why did this not make it to a sticky?)
Anyway I am off with my brother to look at a used MKV GIT this week and he will potentially be buying it - would it be worth taking my VAGCOM kit just to check out any error codes that might be being flagged up?
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Great advice redrobin (PS why did this not make it to a sticky?)
yeah come on Hurdy; sort it out man!! :grin: :grin:
Anyway I am off with my brother to look at a used MKV GIT this week and he will potentially be buying it - would it be worth taking my VAGCOM kit just to check out any error codes that might be being flagged up?
not a bad idea that :afro: if the seller has nothing to hide then he should let you check for codes :wink:
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OK..Stickied :smiley:
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Hi Tagnu,
Thanks for your advice, i hope its sooner rather than later - those 10 days are going to be the longest of my life!!! :laugh:
Printed out TT's list of things to check a few weeks ago with much anticipation.
I can't wait, although British winter is probably not the best time to get a white GTi!
Fingers crossed i'll be doing the 500 mile round trip to Wales in the GTi! Of course I will be going slowly to break the car in gently. :evil:
Cheers for you help.
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in that case remember to get the litre of oil , you may need some of it :laugh:
and dont sit at a constant speed / gear ! Ive consistenly avoided doing so
(even to the point of looking a daft tw*t on the motorway :evil:)
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lockable wheel nut! in the boot with the spare wheel - a bugger if you lose that.. :embarassed:
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Hi Henspeed
This is a list I collated from various forums before collecting mine. Some only apply for checking an import is to UK Spec. OK, I know, it's an embarrassingly long list, but I was spending a lot of money! Before you collect the car, check with the dealer that you can inspect the car indoors if there's any chance of rain, otherwise you won't see any marks on the paintwork etc. Get the dealer to leave you alone, he can put the kettle on for a cuppa for when you're done.
If you do find anything wrong, make sure it's noted down and decide whether to reject the car (really tough after a 15 week wait) or get it in writing that the dealer will rectify it later to your satisfaction.
1 Check all the optional extras
2 Full Spacesaver Sparewheel in boot - (UK Spec.)
3 Check the condition of all the bodywork, wheels and interior, fog lights for stone chips (if its got cosmetic damage its going to be down to you once you drive away).
4 Marks on wheels from lashing ratchet strap from the transporter lorry.
5 Look very carefully for any small dents or chips. Crouch low and look along the sides of the vehicle and all around for anything out of the ordinary. If the car is outside and it has been raining tell the dealer you will be inspecting the car as soon as it is dry as you wouldn't see anything small if wet.
6 Check panel allignment
7 Check the fit of the doors (front especially) up at the top of the window towards the rear.
8 Have a good look at the seats and the fit of all the trim inside.
9 Check the transport blocks have been removed from the suspension springs
10 Headlight settings are on UK setting (ie headlights are not always on with ignition)
11 Full Alarm and Immobiliser (check by locking someone in the car, keep still for a minute, and then move arms around) (Import only)
12 English Manuals in leatherbound GTi holder (UK Spec)
13 Make sure all other documents are in the vehicle wallet.
14 Radio security code has been inputted and you have the number etc
15 Make sure there are no stray rags/cloths in the engine compartment.
16 Make sure they have filled in and stamped the PDI part of the service book
17 Bottle opener in the centre compartment (in between gear stick and armrest), dealers like to keep these.
18 Smoking Pack/Non smoking pack (which ever you ordered)
19 Check VIN numbers match between the car and documentation
20 Make sure you are set up for the service regime you want (Longlife or time & distance)
21 If there is no top up oil in a little bag in the boot ask for some.
22 Check the bolt caps have been inserted in the holes on the wheels
23 Drop the windows right down, and then put them back up on auto (so push/pull knob the double click and don't hold it). Make sure the windows don't drop when they're about an inch from shut.
24 But dont worry too much about making sure all the electric stuff works (if there is a fault with the car its covered by warranty anyway) just concentrate on the stuff that the retailer can shirk responsibility for later.
25 Key adapter for locking wheel nuts (should be in the boot, with the spare wheel)
26 Two keys with remote locking functions, plus plastic key tag - with serial number, for ordering replacement key if necessary.
27 When you get the car home check the tyre pressures (once they have cooled down) - they leave the factory at 55 psi (set for long term storage)
28 Drive home with enormous smile on your face.
Hope that helps
Robin
Number 17.... I noticed in a GTI I viewed before ordering mine this had a bottle opener in. The centre compartment was covered with a movable flap and the opener had its own holder.I have since viewed my car when it arrived,(dont pick it up until march 1st).This had no flap,no bottle opener and nothing which holds said opener in place.I figured the demo was specced up.Is this standard in new GTI,s then????
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It's standard in all Mk 5's isn't it? :undecided: Definitely standard in GTI's though!
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GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR :angry:
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I believe the bottle opener only comes if you opt for the optional Arm Rest - my basic spec car came without both.
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If you have an arm rest then you should have the bottle opener.
No arm rest and you get cup holders instead.
But i will add this to your check list.
Take your time, you would be amazed how many people rush it because they want to get in and get out, its 20 k and you wont spare 10 mins.
Ring the dealer before collection tell him you will expect at least 30 mins of his time, take the car for a drive before you pay the balance.
If you have any questions, ask him then, its your car make him earn his commision.
And dont accept being fobbed off, if your not happy ask to see the Sales Manager, if your still not happy ask for the Brand Manager.
When all is ok Pay up and enjoy, see you in three years :grin:
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Thanks for this information
I am going to pick up my car in about a week or so (hopefully) and this sticky is and will be invaluable. Thanks guys!
Phil
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ok..picked my new car up today..big thanks for the heads up on this thread..i spent 30mins looking over the golf..p1ssed the sales guy right off..
cheers
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ok..picked my new car up today..big thanks for the heads up on this thread..i spent 30mins looking over the golf..p1ssed the sales guy right off..
cheers
Atleast you left the dealers happy...i would think :smiley:
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Hell Yeah................
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I picked up my new GTi several months ago... and I took a printout of Robin's checklist with me.
The sales guy watched me take the list out and I explained that I wanted 10 minutes to check over the car (he didn't look too impressed). Anyway this list was completely invaluable... after checking over the car I found that the suspension blocks were still in. As I didn't fancy driving 190 miles with jacked-up suspension , I asked the guy to take the car back into the garage and remove them.
10 minutes later, he drove it round front, apologised, and handed the keys over. I drove it round the block and stopped, got under the car and STILL found rubber blocks in the front suspension.
Eventually got it sorted, but the point is that the car was meant to have been checked at the factory, checked at the orignial dealership and checked again at PDI.... there is just no substitute for the new owner to go over the car with a fine toothcomb (I guess we have a stronger motivation, especially when we hand over £20k+).
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Thanks to everyone for all these above comments.
I pick mine up at near the end of April and will take this list with me.
A comment on the bottle opener is that it comes with the version with the armrest and the salesman said they often go missing from the showroom models! So perhaps you need to help liberate one from the showroom to replace your missing one, Gulfstream! :evil:
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Thanks that's brilliant, I will go armed with my clipboard and question sheet!!!!!!!!!!!
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I thought I'd copy this on Imports from JonnyG as it is useful info on imported car buying:-
"I'm on my 2nd import GTi and hav'nt encountered any problems....saved thousands on new and got around £500 less on trade-in value.
Warranty work and servicing has been done just like a UK supplied car. Dealers want your custom regardless of whether it's an import.
If you keep your car in really good nick it will sell itself at re-sale time.
If it is more than than 3 years old then there is really very little difference between a UK supplied or import, as both are out of warranty.
The main things to check for UK spec are
1. Spacesaver spare wheel (many imports have a puncture repair kit)
2. The alarm is full UK spec with internal alarm
3. Rear speakers (some imports just have front speakers - but not many reports of this)
4. Headlight settings (some Danish imports had the headlights set on like Volvos )
Have a look at the service book and see where the PDI was done and what the date was. Check out the history. Most imports are fine, but there were a few that had been stored for a year before being sold in the UK - Motorpoint and Motordepot were the sellers of these I believe
Check the VIN number and enter it into this website and you'll get some useful info :
http://www.abvwc.org.uk/vw_vin.htm
You get the full two years UK warranty from the date of the PDI stamp. Check with VW UK that the car has been registered with them and they will be able to tell you how long the warranty has left, what servicing regime it is on etc....)
At the end of the day they are all built at the same factory so IMHO I would'nt let it put you off "
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I have jsut realised that I didnt get a bottle opener with mine ! and I bought it from a dealer !!!!!
I want a refund ! :D
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Dealer told me the bottle openers 'go missing'. He said the are something like £7-£8 to replace so make sure its there.
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When i picked my car up the bottle opener was missing, when I pointed this out the salesman went and got it out of his own car. No doubt someone will be picking up their brand new car soon minus a bottle opener :rolleyes:
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Bottle openers
From a dealers perspective, I can confirm that 50% of all Golfs that should have a bottle opener arrive at my dealership without them. This means that they have been lifted by one of the many people to have touched the car since the factory. At a guess, there is probably 20 people who handle/move each car between the factory and the dealer. Sooner or later, everyone in the loop will have a bloody bottle opener and stop nicking them. Until then, I'll continue to buy 10 - 15 every month to replace em.....
The best ones were the early all metal ones. The new ones are plastic sleeved and no-where near as cool anyway.
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yeah i got one of the plastic sleeved ones. Just glad i got one at all from what i've read here. :shocked:
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I didnt get a bottle opener either...b?s%a"d*
Wish I had seen this back in July, the interior pillar trim is marked in my car and keep finding bits of glass everywhere.
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yeah i got one of the plastic sleeved ones. Just glad i got one at all from what i've read here. :shocked:
can anyone post a picture of this Bottle opener ?
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I to am looking to buy very soon. This is a great list that i will be using, thanks ;)
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yeah i got one of the plastic sleeved ones. Just glad i got one at all from what i've read here. :shocked:
can anyone post a picture of this Bottle opener ?
(http://thumbs2.ebaystatic.com/m/mk4gSBWYvYzbUrJ8C5ksocw/140.jpg)
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Hi all, I found this on another forum.
http://www.vw-club.cz/download/file.php?id=565257&mode=view
EDIT: Sorry, wrong theme :-(